Everton manager David Moyes today completed the signing of Phil Neville in time for him to be eligible for Everton's Champions League third-round qualifier against Villarreal next Tuesday.
The utility player has passed a medical and agreed a five-year deal after joining from Manchester United for in excess of £3million .
Neville only signed a five-year deal with United last season but his slim chances of first-team football have persuaded him to move on.
He will fill the hole left by the departure of Thomas Gravesen to Real Madrid last January.
Meanwhile, Everton are 'very optimistic' that influential midfielder Tim Cahill will sign a new long-term deal after the Australian turned down an initial offer from the Toffees.
Talks have resumed between the club, who begin their Champions League campaign next week, and the player's representatives.
"Further talks have taken place between the club and Tim's representatives," chief executive Keith Wyness told www.evertonfc.com. "These talks will continue and we remain very optimistic about the outcome."
